Non-profit to collect kids' books Oct. 27

Assistance League of East Valley donates supplies to disadvantaged children. On Oct. 27, the organization will collect children's books for Make a Difference Day.

The non-profit helps Arizona's children by donating teddy bears to children in crisis, promoting literacy through gifts of books and dictionaries, and providing clothing and health kits for elementary-school children in need.

Assistance League of East Valley President Lynn Walti said Operation School Bell is one of its largest programs. Last year, the East Valley chapter donated uniforms, money for clothes and hygiene kits to 6,630 children.

"We're doing as much as we can with what we have, but there's the unmet need," Walti said of the 30,000 children in East Valley school districts who would have qualified for donated items.

Walti said people can support Assistance League of East Valley by donating money and clothes, shopping at its thrift store, attending fundraisers or donating books to the upcoming drive.

"The children need books," she said. "They like them, they need them and many times they don't have them."

Assistance League is a national organization with chapters in the East Valley, Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma and Flagstaff. Assistance League Tucson and Phoenix will also collect books in October. To find a local chapter to donate to, visit www.assistanceleague.org or call 818-846-3777.

How you're helping

Other ways to advocate

Children's Action Alliance

What it does: Researches the child welfare system and advocates for legislation that will benefit children and families.

How to help: Sign up for e-news and e-alerts from Children's Action Alliance to learn how to get involved with legislation. Register to vote and talk to state lawmakers about the importance of helping foster children.

What it does: Helps abused or neglected children via education, advocacy, community outreach and prevention programs.

How to help: Become a member and help with events and programs designed to raise awareness.

Contact: Judy Jensen, 323-465-4016.

Make a difference

Throughout October, we will offer readers ways to get involved, both with children already in the CPS system and with families in need. The month-long effort by The Arizona Republic leads up to Make a Difference Day on Oct. 27.